[markomalley]

I spent almost a full month in a little hotel (al Fagiano) about a block away from del Santo. Took my morning coffee and brioche creme in the Piazza every day. They have a truly impressive collection of the relics of St. Anthony. Well worth the trip.

If you go to Italy, I highly recommend taking a few days to stay in Padova. It is far more affordable than Venice (and the people are FAR FAR friendlier). It has a lot of history and art (as you can see in the Blue Guide). (The bonus is that the hotels are also far more affordable than other more touristy spots). Suggestion: if you're driving, make that a base and then drive to Venice (Mestre) -- about 25 miles -- and Verona -- about 50 miles. (On a practical note, if you are military or retired military, you are really close, about 20 miles, to Vicenza and Caserne Ederle...where you can restock on things American, if needed)

[ELS]

I have been to many towns/cities in Italy, but I don't think I've been to Padova (one of my trips was 35 years ago, so please forgive me if my memory of that trip is fuzzy).

It is definitely on my list of towns to visit. St. Anthony is one of my favorite saints. The basilica looks stunning. Thanks for the advice.

It has a lot of history and art

That is true of almost every place in Italy!